Fodor's Expert Review Red Cliffs Lodge

Director John Ford discovered this working cattle ranch in the late 1940s and used it as the setting for several of his westerns, and you can feel transported into one as you gaze onto the Colorado River and high canyon walls from your simple but elegant room. The River Queen cabins are especially nice, with private decks overlooking the rapids below. All rooms have western-style decor, including log furniture and Saltillo-tiled bathrooms. Attractions include an on-site winery, a movie memorabilia museum, and plenty of space to walk and enjoy the location. The helpful staff are happy to arrange guided rafting, hiking, biking, and off-road tours throughout your stay. Although it's not a traditional guest ranch, horseback riding, guided by real-life cowboys and cowgirls, is also offered. With all the adventure here, you'll probably work up an appetite, and The Cowboy Grill at Red Cliffs serves excellent meals. It's a good thing, too, because town is about 14 miles away.